Ich wünsche Ihnen ein schönes Strassenfest-Wochenende. Translation, I hope you have a good Strassenfest weekend. Head downtown for some good food, activities, and fellowship this weekend. On Monday GJCS will have a staff day and finalize preparations for the start of school on Wednesday, August 7th at 8 am. If you are dropping off or picking up students please read the traffic flow section below. Student drop off is on the north side of the building at door 17. Please do not drop off at the athletic entrance or at door 9 as drop off in these areas greatly obstructs traffic creating unsafe situations for our students. After school pick up occurs in the east parking lot. Please enter from the south and pull in and park in any of the available spaces in the east "tennis" parking lot. If your student rides a bus they will be dropped off at the main entrance and will depart from the same location. Buses 3, 4, 15, 24, 26, 27, 29, 32 are JHS anchor buses and will be lined up along the front curb at 3. These buses will leave at 3:05 and we will try to provide a little extra time the first few days.

I have received several positive messages about the changes to the cell phone and backpack policies and a few questions. I will do my best to clarify some of the confusion. Cell phones and other personal communication devices, including smart watches, will be powered off and stored in the student's locker or vehicle during school hours which are from 7:50 until 3 pm. Phones are permitted in the cafeteria before 7:50 and after school. If you need to relay an urgent message to your student, such as a change in after school plans, please call the school and we will forward the message. Backpacks may be utilized to transport materials to and from school. Backpacks must be stored in lockers before the 8 am bell and may be accessed again after the 3 pm dismissal. Students may use a small pencil bag for classroom essentials. Lunchboxes may also be stored in lockers and students will have 45 minutes to retrieve their lunches and eat. We are also taking measures to accommodate female students with their special needs. The nurse and each teacher will have a few feminine products for students. Students may also keep these in their lockers or pencil bags.

GJCS and the State of Indiana are making student attendance a priority this year. Please take a few minutes to read Dr. Lorey's message below. Students should not miss more than ten days of school for the year. The 10 day total is cumulative for all absences both excused or unexcused. Any absence past the 10 day total will require documentation to be considered excused. Attendance is one of the most important factors to a student's academic success and we appreciate the level of support we have received from our families.

Finally, I wanted to share with our stakeholders the JHS Mission Statement. This statement was developed in 2010 and was reaffirmed in 2022. We believe all students will find success through the teaching of a rigorous and relevant curriculum and the promotion of positive relationships through the fostering of reasoning, personal responsibility, and respect toward one's self and others. These six R's, Respect, Responsibility, Relationships, Relevancy, Rigor and Reasoning will be the focus of everything we do at JHS. We are thrilled for the start of a new school year and will do our very best to ensure an environment where every student can find success.

Have a great weekend, and Go Cats!

Mr. Mauck

JHS Student Handbook

"Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up." -Brene Brown

August 2nd Student registration ends

August 7th First Day of School 8 am

August 8th Vocational Students Report to Placements

August 14th Meet the Teacher Night 6-8pm

August 21st Parent Information Night 6 & 7 pm

September 2nd No School (Labor Day)

September 4th Graduation Items Presentation

September 21st Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner

October 9th School SAT Day (voluntary)

October 9th Tour of Opportunity (Freshmen)

October 11th End of First Quarter (Athletic Verification)

October 14-18th No School (Fall Break)

As we approach the 2024-2025 school year, it's essential to prepare for more than just

new supplies. One of the most crucial aspects of a student's success in K-12 education

is consistent school attendance. Regular attendance isn't just about showing up; it's

about establishing habits that can lead to academic achievement and lifelong success.

Student attendance at school every day matters and parents play a vital role to support

their children in making the most of their educational opportunities.

Academic Success

• Foundation for Learning
• Each school day builds on the previous one, and missing even a single day can disrupt the learning process. Concepts in subjects like math and reading are cumulative meaning that understanding today’s lesson relies on grasping yesterday’s material.
• Higher Achievement
• Studies consistently show a strong correlation between regular attendance and higher academic performance. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to excel in their studies, participate in class, and complete their assignments on time.
• Skill Development
• Beyond academics, regular attendance helps students develop essential skills such a time management, responsibility, and perseverance. These skills are invaluable not only in school but also in future professional and personal endeavors.

Social and Emotional Benefits

• Social Skills
• School is not just a place for academic learning; it’s also where children develop social skills. Regular attendance allows students to form and maintain friendships, work in teams, and learn to navigate social situations.
• Emotional Stability
• Consistency in attendance provides a stable routine, which is crucial for emotional well- being. Children who attend school regularly are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and stability, which can reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health.

• Engagement and Participation
• Being present at school enables students to engage fully in the classroom environment. Participation in discussions, group work, and extracurricular activities enhances learning experiences and helps build confidence.

Long-term Impact

• College and Career Readiness
• Regular school attendance is a predictor of future success. Colleges and employers look for individuals who demonstrate reliability and commitment—traits that are honed through consistent school attendance.
• Life Choices
• Students who attend school regularly are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. They are more likely to make positive life choices and are better equipped to pursue their goals and aspirations.

Parental Support

• Set Expectations
• Make attendance a priority in your household. Explain to your child why attending school every day is important and set clear expectations about attendance and punctuality.
• Create Routines
• Establish a consistent daily routine that includes a regular bedtime and morning schedule. This helps ensure that your child is well-rested and ready for school each day.
• Monitor Attendance
• Keep track of your child’s attendance and communicate with their teachers. If you notice patterns of absenteeism, address them promptly and seek support if needed.
• Encourage Engagement
• Foster a positive attitude towards school by showing interest in your child’s education. Discuss what they learned each day and encourage participation in school activities and events.
• Address Barriers
• Be aware of any barriers to regular attendance, such as health issues, transportation problems, or bullying. Work with the school to find solutions and provide your child with the necessary support.

Consistent school attendance is a key factor in your child’s educational journey. By

prioritizing attendance, you are setting the foundation for academic success, social development, and future achievements. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive in their educational environment.

Let’s make this school year a great one!

-Dr. Tracy Lorey

I would encourage all parents to join our PTO. The PTO provides JHS students with post-prom and other activities. Dues are $25 per family and can be mailed, or brought to the school with your student.

Online registration for GJCS schools opened on July 22nd. Please complete all 18 sections and make sure your address, phone number, and email are accurate. If you have changed addresses you will need to provide proof of residency. Students that have not completed registration will not be allowed to attend school. Parents should have received an email with registration instructions. If you have any questions please contact the school at 812-482-6050.

Pd 1 8:00 - 8:50

Pd 2 8:55 - 9:40

HR 9:45 - 10:10

Pd 3 10:15 - 11:00

Pd 4 11:05 - 11:50

Pd 5 A lunch 11:50 - 12:30; Class 12:35 - 1:20

B lunch 12:40 - 1:20; Class 11:55 - 12:40

Pd 6 1:25 - 2:10

Pd 7 2:10 - 3:00

The school is open from 7:15 until 3:45. Students are not to arrive before 7:15 and need to be picked up before 3:45. Students should remain in the cafeteria until the 7:50 bell sounds. Students are not permitted in the academic hallways or in the athletic locker rooms until 7:50. We encourage all students to participate in extra-curricular activities which would extend their school day. Students should always be supervised during these activities

There are four entrances for students to JHS in the mornings.

• The main entrance (Door 1) is for bus drop-off only.
• Parent am drop-off is on the north end of the building (Door 17). Parents will enter campus via the south St. Charles entrance or the 15th Street entrance, drive around the east side of the building, and circle to the north drive.
• Parent pm pick-up will be at door #8 on the east side of the school. Please enter campus via the south St. Charles St. entrance and move around the south side of the gym toward door 8. Parents must park in a parking spot in the East parking lot and wait for their student to walk to the car. We will not be lining up along the sidewalk anywhere along the building.
• Students driving to school may park in the Athletic (South) Lot or the Soccer (Northeast) Lot. These students can enter through Door 6 or Door 9.
• Students driving to school will need to purchase a parking permit for the school year. Parking permits are $25 for the year or $15 for just a semester.

Traffic flow before and after school will follow a one way direction from the South of the school around the back of the school and exit via the North drive onto St. Charles Street. In the mornings vehicles may enter campus from the South St. Charles St. entrance or the 15th Street entrance. The 15th street exit heading south is closed and everyone should exit the North drive. All vehicles should continue around the South side of school then to the East (back) side of school. Student drivers may enter the parking lots and parents dropping off students will continue to the North drive and drop off at door 17 on the Northwest corner of school. The North drive is a one way exit both before and after school with the left lane turning left and the right lane turning right. Parents should not drop off students at the main entrance, athletic entrance or the door 9 entrance. After school the one way traffic pattern is the same as the morning. The one exception is the 15th Street entrance is an exit only with the left lane turning left and the right lane turning right. Parents picking up students may do so by parking in one of the open spaces in the West lot by the tennis courts. Students will exit the building and meet you in the parking space. Parents should not pick up students at the main entrance, athletic entrance, south parking lot, or along the curb at any point. The South parking lot will exit via the 15th Street exit. Parent pickup, the West lot, and the Northeast lot will all exit school via the North drive which will be one way with the left lane turning left and the right lane turning right. Following this traffic pattern all traffic will have departed the school in under thirteen minutes. Thank you for helping keep our students safe.

JHS will be able to offer free breakfast to all students again this year. The cost of lunch will remain $2.75 but breakfast is free. Money may be deposited into lunch accounts during breakfast or by bringing cash or check to the main office in an envelope with the student's name on the outside. If you prefer to use a card, funds may be deposited using the My School Bucks app with a slight fee. JHS has several options for lunch and opportunities for students to purchase extra drinks and food. Please discuss with your student how to be fiscally responsible with their lunch money. Just a reminder if you feel you need assistance with the costs of lunch an application must be filled out each year. There is a link in the registration materials.

Students will start Patoka Valley Vocational programs in Dubois and Pike Counties on August 8th. Students who are attending VUJ for programs (excluding HOSA students) need to meet in the CTIM Auditorium on August 8th. Students will report to their regular Patoka Valley Cooperative classroom at Pike Central and Southridge. Aviation will meet at the Huntingburg Airport hanger. Students need to bring their electronic devices on the first day of Patoka Valley classes.

Jasper High School strives to provide an excellent education for our students. To augment that education we encourage students to engage in activities outside of the normal school day. We have a list of clubs and activities that will meet almost any interest. We have varsity sports, a state-level band, theater, student council, and a myriad of clubs. Please encourage your student to get involved with a group and develop their talents. Being involved in activities accentuates their high school experience.

These are the clubs offered at JHS:

Academic Teams, BPA, Dance Marathon, Earth Club, FFA, German Club, GSA, Interact, JAG, Key Club, National Honors Society, Octagon Club, Performing Arts, Ping Pong, Robotics, SADD, SOFA, Spanish Club, Spell Bowl, MotorSports, Ultimate Frisbee Club, Archery, Speech and Debate, Young Latinos Unidos, FCA, ED Rising, FCCLA, Take 3, Yogioh Club, Pickleball Club

Proper dress and attire are essential skills for employment and should be practiced at school. Students should not have exposed skin from the waistline to approaching the knee, including holes in jeans. Shorts are not permitted at Jasper High School. Shirts should cover the midriff at all times. Students are not permitted to wear hats or hoods at any time for safety concerns. Costumes are not permitted except for certain dress-up days. JHS will host several spirit days where students are encouraged to dress for a particular theme. A good rule of thumb would be if you would not wear it to work you should not wear it to school. We encourage students to express themselves but there are a few rules to allow the school to function smoothly. The school is climate controlled and kept at a cool temperature so prepare to dress warmly.

Vaping/e-cigarette usage and THC devices have become extremely popular with young people. These devices are horrific for one's health and lead to problems including addiction, anxiety, digestive problems, and seizures. They are illegal for anyone under the age of 21 and should not be on school property. Violation of this policy will result in a suspension and possible expulsion.

Class Changes

Any student wanting to make a class change will need to submit a class change request form to the guidance office when school resumes. The class change forms can be found on the JHS Guidance website under "Forms and Presentations". You will follow your current schedule until the change is made.

Seniors

Guidance counselors will be meeting with all seniors on the second week of school to discuss the college application process, sending official transcripts, sending test scores, and submitting dual credit course information.

Parent Information Meeting

There will be a parent information night on August 21st. Grades 9/10 will start at 6pm, and grades 11/12 will start at 7pm. These meetings will take place in the JHS auditorium. Specific grade-level information will be covered in these meetings.

Guidance Office Evening Office Hours

The guidance office will begin evening office hours on September 9th. Counselors will be available from 5-7pm on Monday evenings to meet with students/parents individually to discuss questions they may have about any topics at any grade level. You can email your counselor to set up an appointment.

Sean Jochum: sjochum@gjcs.k12.in.us

Brian Uebelhor: buebelhor@gjcs.k12.in.us

Vocational Students

Any students traveling off campus for Vocational classes will report to Jasper High School on the first day of school, Wednesday, August 7th. You will report to your vocational class location on Thursday, August 8th. You will be receiving an email from Jarred Howard, the Patoka Valley Vocational Co-op coordinator with more detailed information in the next weeks.

School Day SAT

Jasper High School will be offering a school-day SAT test on October 9th. This test is optional for Juniors and Seniors. This is for your planning purposes only. This test is not required. Students will be given more information about registration for this test when school resumes.

Email: gmauck@gjcs.K12.in.us
Website: https://jhs.gjcs.k12.in.us/
Location: 1600 Saint Charles Street, Jasper, IN, USA
Phone: (812)482-6050
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JasperHighSchool.Wildcats
Twitter: @JasperWildcats